Firm backing for a new law on squatters…

LANDLORD Assist, the nationwide tenant eviction and rent collection firm, is backing plans to make squatting in residential properties a criminal offence.

At present, squatters are allowed to enter an empty property if it is left unsecured. But it becomes illegal and a civil offence if they refuse to leave a home that is already or due to be occupied.

However, amendments to the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Bill, due to be introduced from September this year, will mean that anyone found squatting in any residential property could face up to a £5,000 fine and a six-month prison sentence if they take up residence in another person’s property.